Retro — the idea of bringing the past back to life — has captivated people for ages. Vintage clothes, vintage jewelry and vintage furniture intrigues buyers and sellers alike, making past styles and antiques current. Now, vintage movies can be added to the list.

The movie “The Artist,” which opened in U.S. theaters Nov. 23, weaves together many of the elements of a modern-day movie: romance, comedy and loss, with one exceptional twist: it is a silent movie. Completely silent of any dialogue, the story develops through exceptional acting and filming, and is accompanied by a soundtrack that carries the plot along.

The silent-film era lasted for about 35 years, from the mid-1890s to 1929, and the films were often accompanied by live musical performances, as demonstrated through the soundtrack of “The Artist.” “Talkies,” movies with pre-recorded synchronized sound and dialogue, took over the film industry in the late 1920s, and completely replaced silent films within the decade.

The story follows the fictional life of famed silent-movie actor, George Valentin, in late 1920s Hollywood, as his career turns downhill. He finds himself replaced by younger, fresher actors, as the invention of “talkies” make the silent-movie industry obsolete. He meets a young new dancer, Peppy Miller, and through counseling her, sparks her film career.

The movie includes many of the difficulties and hardships of life: Valentin suffers through the loss of his career, divorce, bankruptcy, alcoholism and depression. However, it feels lighthearted through the romance, comedy and the character of Valentin’s dog, a Jack Russell terrier, which costars with him in his films.

“The Artist” first premiered May 15 at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival. Directed by Michel Hazanavicius, previously known for his French spy films, this French romance stars Jean Dujardin (Valentin) and Bérénice Bejo (Miller). Jean Dujardin won the award for best actor. Critics also have high expectations for the film at the Academy Awards.

“The Artist” is a breathtaking homage to the silent-movie era and is a great way to experience this part of American history. With exceptional performances by Bejo and Dujardin, “The Artist” is the must-see movie.

Alexandra Graff is a Bothell High senior.